Otorohanga to Waitomo Caves – Return Ride A scenic e-bike adventure from Otorohanga through the heart of the Waitomo countryside, with a spectacular forest walk, the famous Waitomo Caves and some of the best back-country riding in the Waikato. Your ride begins at the Otorohanga Motorhome Park, following the beautiful Waipā River before crossing over and taking the quieter Old Golf Road. This short detour gets you away from the busy main highway and onto peaceful country roads. There are two crossings of the main road, so take care and make sure the road is clear before crossing. Once you’re onto Waitomo Valley Road, the real adventure begins. The next 15 km takes you through rolling farmland and beautiful countryside all the way to Waitomo Caves Village. Ruakuri Walk – a must-do From the village, continue another 3 km to Ruakuri Walk – a spectacular 45-minute loop through some of Waitomo’s most beautiful native bush. Lock your bike securely to one of the shelter posts and set off on foot. The track follows the Waitomo Stream through lush native forest, passes through a narrow natural tunnel and then opens out alongside a dramatic gorge where the sound of rushing water accompanies you. The highlight is reaching a large underground cave with a viewing platform. From there, the track loops back through another tunnel, crosses the stream and eventually returns you to your bike. This is one of the real highlights of the ride and well worth allowing an hour for. Waitomo Caves Village Ride back towards the village and, if you have time, take the opportunity to visit the iconic Waitomo Caves and enjoy a cave tour. Afterwards, relax with some food and a drink at one of the village cafés before continuing your ride. Leaving the village, you will need to ride approximately 6 km along the main road. Take extra care on this section and keep well to the left. The road is regularly used by buses, cars and campervans travelling to and from the Waitomo Caves. The quiet way home After about 6 km, turn left onto Haurua Road and leave the traffic behind. This is a beautiful, quiet back-country road where you can settle into an easy cruising pace and enjoy the sights and sounds of the New Zealand countryside. Expect rolling farmland, native bush, wide-open views and plenty of opportunities to simply stop, take a breath and enjoy where you are. At the end of Haurua Road, turn right onto Waitomo Valley Road and retrace your route through the countryside before returning to the Otorohanga Motorhome Park. The experience This is more than just an e-bike ride from A to B. It combines Waipā River scenery, quiet country roads, native forest, caves, a spectacular short walk and the unique landscape of Waitomo – all in one relaxed day. Allow around 4–5 hours if you want to enjoy the Ruakuri Walk, stop for refreshments and have time to explore the Waitomo Caves. Ride with GPS route: ⁠Otorohanga to Waitomo Caves Return Ride Ride difficulty: Moderate Best suited to: Riders looking for a scenic half-day/day adventure with a mixture of quiet roads, rolling countryside and a little main-road riding. Safety note: Take particular care at the two main-road crossings near the start of the ride and on the approximately 6 km section of main road leaving Waitomo Caves Village. Keep well to the left and be alert for buses, campervans and other traffic.